Definition

Describing something that causes a lack or absence of a quality or characteristic.

Example

In grammar, a privative term changes the meaning of a word to indicate the absence of something.

Conversation

I was reading about how some words can have a privative meaning.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It means they describe a lack or absence of something, like 'unhappy' for example.

Got it! That makes sense — language can be so interesting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A term used in grammar to describe a prefix or suffix that indicates absence or negation, such as 'un-' or 'non-'.

Example

In the word 'unhappy', 'un-' is a privative that negates the meaning of 'happy'.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a privative in grammar?

Yeah, it’s like when you use prefixes to negate something, right?

Exactly! Words like 'unhappy' or 'nonexistent' use a privative form.

Root Explanation

Privative → It is formed from "privare" (meaning to deprive) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "privative" refers to something that has the nature of depriving or lacking something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'depriving' ('privare') as a way to remember that 'privative' means something that lacks or takes away.

Visually Confused Words